Not as good as the first one - although gets better after the first couple of stories.
Not as much food in this volume.
Some background, finally, on the back door.
New characters. The Deacon looks more like a Buddhist temple priest than a European Christian.
Effa grows up fast!
My favorite was the 2 craftsmen arguing with each other.
I have one more volume at home, we'll see if I do buy the other 4 - probably. I do enjoy the series - and especially the food!